The federal government has refuted claims suggesting that water had been released from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon into Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Monday, Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, clarified that he had spoken with Ahmad Bivoung, manager of the Lagdo Dam, who confirmed that the dam was currently at a low level of 2.06 metres and “no discharge has taken place.”
Utsev assured that the ministry remains in constant contact with Cameroonian authorities and promised Nigerians that they would be notified immediately if any official release occurs.
“The public is advised to disregard false reports and remain calm, while continuing to observe flood preparedness and safety measures earlier issued,” the statement reads.
He urged residents of flood-prone areas, particularly those in Lokoja (Kogi), Wurobokki (Adamawa), and Makurdi (Benue) to stay alert and consult the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) flood dashboard for accurate updates.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to proactive flood management and infrastructure improvements along the Benue trough. This includes careful reservoir operations of tributary dams to prevent unplanned discharges.
He added that the Kashimbila Dam in Taraba is currently being used for flood control. He also disclosed that upgrades to the Wannune Dam and the design of the Dura Dam in Benue are well underway.
Utsev further highlighted plans to build the Datsin Hausa Dam in Adamawa to act as a buffer against possible flooding from the Lagdo Dam. He stated during the 2025 ministerial press briefing that a study and design phase for the dam is ongoing.
According to him, “a transaction adviser has been engaged to facilitate the dam’s construction under a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement.”
